India Hicks, goddaughter to King Charles III, publicly disclosed her diagnosis of Stage IV adenocarcinoma on December 11, 2023, sharing the news via an Instagram post and a detailed account in Country Life magazine. The 56-year-old model and interior designer revealed she began experiencing discomfort in late 2022, initially attributing it to the aftermath of several falls. After months of tests, a diagnosis was confirmed in March 2023.
Hicks’ revelation comes as she navigates a challenging health journey, undergoing treatment and adjusting to a new reality. Her openness about her cancer battle aims to raise awareness and offer support to others facing similar circumstances. The news resonates particularly given her prominent position within British society and her close ties to the royal family; King Charles III served as a mentor to her father, David Hicks, and remains a notable figure in her life. Hicks is currently receiving care and focusing on maintaining a positive outlook while managing her condition.
The Country Life article details Hicks’ initial dismissal of symptoms,including pain in her ribs and back,as consequences of accidents.Subsequent scans revealed a tumor in her sternum, which had metastasized. She is now undergoing immunotherapy and targeted therapy, acknowledging the uncertainty of her prognosis.
Hicks, a successful entrepreneur and author, has built a career around lifestyle and design. She founded the lifestyle brand India Hicks, offering a range of products inspired by her travels and experiences. She lives on Harbour Island in the Bahamas with her partner, David Flint Wood, and their five children. Her diagnosis and subsequent treatment are impacting her work and family life, prompting a reevaluation of priorities.
